Ocean Tomkins: A journey of resilience through sport
Sport has always been a huge part of Ocean Tomkins’ life. He began swimming at just four years old, quickly realising that it was his passion. When he joined the Defence Force, his love for sport did not change, however the role it played in his life did. Sport went from being about maintaining his physical fitness to how it could help to provide him with a critical support system and help him to combat social isolation and find his community.
When injuries and mental ill health caused Ocean to put a pause on the sports he loved, he turned to adaptive sports to help to support him in his recovery. It was when he made this change, that he was first introduced to Invictus Australia Local Veteran Engagement Manager, Debbie, who connected him to local sporting opportunities with other veterans and families.
Ocean’s story is not uncommon among the defence community, with The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide highlighting the urgent need for improved mental health support and community connection for veterans. We know that sport serves as a proactive solution, helping to address these findings by facilitating social engagement, building resilience, and promoting a sense of purpose.
Ocean’s Story
Joining the Army at age 20, Ocean credits his childhood friend for encouraging him to sign up for service alongside him. After 15 years, he transitioned to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) where he continued to serve for 15 years.
During his service, sport provided Ocean with a vital outlet, enabling him to stay fit and healthy amidst the rigors of military life. More importantly, it served as a crucial support system for his mental health, fostering camaraderie and social connections within the military and with his wider community. Swimming has always been his passion, he started at just four years old. Ocean has also taken part in running and cycling throughout his life, even competing in Ironman and Triathlon events.
Facing Adversity
In 2014, Ocean faced a significant setback. A chronic leg injury forced him to abandon the sports he loved, leading to a painful cycle of inactivity and mental health struggles. This period was marked by a profound sense of loss, as the sports that once defined him were stripped away. In 2023, when Ocean was 54, he suffered a stroke at work, resulting in his transition out of defence.
A Turning Point
The road to recovery was fraught with challenges. Between 2014 and 2023, Ocean underwent 14 operations on his leg, but the pain persisted, leaving him desperate for relief. The turning point came on December 4, 2023, when he made the life-altering decision to have a below-knee amputation. Reflecting on this moment, Ocean said, “The day my leg was amputated, I was pain free.”
A return to the sporting world
Despite these trials, Ocean’s spirit remained unbroken. In June 2024, after receiving medical clearance, he returned to the pool. With a newfound sense of freedom, he began training at Stromlo Pool in the ACT three times a week under the guidance of his coach. It was during this time that he connected with Debbie from Invictus Australia.
Eager to explore new avenues for his recovery, Ocean decided to start attending community sport events hosted by Debbie to see how this could play a role in his recovery and reintegration into civilian life. As well as being exposed to new sports, these events are allowing Ocean to connect once again with veterans and their families in a welcoming, inclusive environment.
Looking to the Future
As he looks to the future, Ocean is determined to reclaim his place in the sporting world. He is eagerly awaiting the arrival of a specialised running blade that will allow him to run again. Swimming remains his greatest passion, and with his competitive spirit intact, he has set his sights on competing in the Paralympics.
Sport has allowed me to feel like a new person. I believe I’ve been given a second chance, and I want to make the most of it. No more pain and being desperate to get back into sport—that’s what got me through.”
Through his journey, sport has been a constant in Ocean’s life, and the addition of adaptive sports and participation within the community have meant his emotional and social health is being protected alongside his physical fitness.
Invictus Australia has a team of seven Veteran Engagement Managers who help individuals like Ocean connect with their local community through sport. If you are a veteran or family member wishing to attend an event near you, view our event calendar here.
Looking to get involved in sport in your region? Connect with our staff through your regions Facebook group or email support@invictusaustralia.org.
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